Sesame Place Designation As Certified Autism Center Renewed

MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — Sesame Place Philadelphia's designation as a Certified Autism Center has been renewed by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards.

The renewal comes after at least 80 percent of Sesame Place's staff renewed their autism and sensory training to update their skills and best practices to welcome, assist, and communicate with autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and their families when visiting the park.

In 2018, Sesame Place became the first theme park in the world to become a CAC.

“Sesame Place’s partnership with IBCCES has led to meaningful enhancements at the park, including additional training for employees, pre-planning guides, and a variety of in-park resources,” said Mike Taylor, Sesame Place park president of Sesame Place. “As the first theme park in the world to become a Certified Autism Center, we are always looking for new ways to best support our guests and to deliver an inclusive, memorable experience for all.”

Last year, the park opened an upgraded low-sensory room within its Family Care Center.

The room has adjustable lighting, comfortable seating, and sensory toys to help promote relaxation and relieve stress.

In addition, Sesame Place Philadelphia honored Autism Acceptance Month with a free giveaway of Julia Glo Pals Kits to guests who visited on World Autism Day on April 2.

The park has also identified low-sensory areas for guests and offers low-sensory parade viewing and dining options. Noise-canceling headphones, provided by KidCo, are available for single-day use.

Sesame Place Philadelphia also offers a variety of other accessibility resources to assist guests before and after visiting.

In addition to the Sensory Guide Sesame Place developed with IBCCES, the park offers an online Accessibility Guide, which includes an overview of services available at the park and individual ride access information.

“Renewing its Certified Autism Center designation is not only an accolade for Sesame Place Philadelphia, but also a testament to the park’s ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive space that empowers staff and welcomes all guests,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “We are proud of Sesame Place’s ongoing commitment, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact this certification will have on staff and guests alike.”